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Reaction to Mold Allergy

Mold allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to inhaled mold spores. The body reacts as it would to a harmful intruder by producing histamines, which cause congestion and irritation.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of mold allergies include sneezing, itchy eyes and throat, nasal congestion, watery eyes and stuffy nose. It can aggravate asthma symptoms, causing wheezing and shortness of breath.

    Causes

    • Only a handful of molds cause allergic reactions. They may grow indoors in damp areas or have spores present in outside air.

    Risk Factors

    • People who are exposed to mold on a regular basis have a higher risk of developing mold allergies or aggravating existing symptoms. This includes farmers, wine makers, carpenters and people who live in damp houses.

    Complications

    • Mold allergies may cause serious problems such as chronic sinus infections (fungal sinusitis) and inflammation of the lungs (hypersensitivity pneumonitis).

    Treatment

    • Mold allergies cannot be cured, but they can be treated with medication such as antihistamines and allergy shots. In addition, allergic reactions can be avoided by minimizing contact with mold spores.

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